1999 News Releases

Non-Profit Receives Grant To Address Environmental Justice Concerns; Group Will Use Money for Pesticide Education

Release Date: 11/10/1999Contact Information:

(#99179) San Juan, Puerto Rico -- The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has granted $16,000 to a non-profit group in Puerto Rico to help them address environmental justice issues. The grant was awarded to Comite Pro Costa Ventana, Inc. in Guayanilla, Puerto Rico to continue its work in the area of pesticide education.

"By awarding these grants, EPA hopes to empower members of minority or low-income communities by giving them a voice and to ensure that they do not shoulder a disproportionate share of pollution," said Jeanne M. Fox, EPA Regional Administrator. "All Americans deserve to be protected from pollution -- not just those who can afford to live in wealthy communities."

The municipality of Guayanilla, Puerto Rico has more than 21,000 residents, with nearly 70% living below the poverty line. The community has been impacted by pesticide spraying at the nearby 1,200 acre farm operated by the Tropical Fruit Company. The Comite Pro Costa Ventana will use EPA's grant money to educate residents about pesticide-related health and environmental issues. The group will host community workshops, translate and distribute important technical literature and data and publish community newsletters. By educating the community, the organization will also empower the residents to advocate effectively for the preservation of the local environment and protection of human health.